As the Church is moving towards its 21
st
century of existence, it is
confronted by challenges it has never known before. This changing
world demands self-reflection within the Church. It has to consider
its place, identity and function, thereby giving rise to the exploration
of its mission. In this article, the ecclesiology of Karl Barth is
explored. By considering Barth’s understanding of the Church’s
relationship with different parties such as God, other religions, those
outside the Christian faith, the State and its own inner dynamics, the
Church will be reminded of its missionary function in the world.